Why You Should Flush Your Water Heater

There’s nothing like a nice shower to wake you up in the morning. Of course, that’s only desired if your water heater is properly working. When the tank decides to — well, tank — you’re stuck with a shivering shower or none at all.

So… what maintenance does a water heater really need? All water heaters need to be flushed regularly — how regularly will depend on your home’s water. You should flush your water heater at least once per year to prevent sediment buildup. If you live in an area with hard water, however, it’s recommended to increase the frequency to once every six months.

Why should you flush your water heater?

It’s essential to flush your water heater, which is why it helps maintain efficiency and prolong its lifespan. If you’re a fan of hot showers, the length of that lifespan is going to be important to you.

What happens if you don’t flush your water heater?

Do hot water heaters need to be flushed? Yes, they do. Hear us out: if you don’t flush your water heater, sediment and mineral deposits will build up at the bottom of the tank over time, which is not good. This accumulation can cause the heater to work harder, reducing its efficiency and leading to higher energy bills. The sediment can also damage the heating elements, causing inconsistent water temperature or even failure of the unit. In severe cases, the buildup may cause the tank to overheat, increasing the risk of leaks, corrosion or premature breakdown of the entire system.

Neglecting to flush the water heater can also reduce the amount of available hot water, as sediment takes up space in the tank. Over time, this lack of maintenance can shorten the lifespan of the water heater, leading to costly repairs or the need for an early replacement. Regular flushing helps avoid these issues and keeps your water heater running smoothly.

Plus, some water heater manufacturers will only honor a warranty if the owner proves they have regularly maintained the tank. It’s all in the fine print that we’re sure you read when you purchased the product. Scale damage isn’t typically covered under warranty, meaning you’ll have to document your upkeep efforts. When you buy a water heater, you’re not purchasing a self-sustaining machine — it’s one that needs attention from time to time. It’s good to know you can fall back on your warranty if something out of your control goes wrong.

How often should you flush a water heater?

We suggest flushing your water heater at least once a year to get the most out of your equipment. This will get rid of problematic debris and keep your family comfortable. Crunched for time? Our team can provide yearly maintenance for any water heater brand. If you’re doing spring cleaning, your water heater is one thing you won’t want to miss!  While some people ignore their tank and hope for the best, you can get the best out of yours with annual maintenance.